Opposition Spokesperson for Transport, Mark Anthony Sammut, has sounded the alarm over the continued use of dangerous crash barriers on Maltese roads, calling for immediate reform to improve safety for motorcyclists.
The debate arose again due to yesterday’s tragic accident which saw 35 year old Shaun Coppola lose his life in a horrific collision on the Xemxija Bypass
In comments published on Facebook, Sammut stopped short of referring to any specific case, but pointed to repeated warnings from both local bikers and European Parliament reports about the lethal risks posed by steel guardrails with exposed support legs — often described as “death traps” for riders.
“If you crash into one of these, it’s like hitting a blade,” Sammut said, referencing concerns that such barriers can cause severe or fatal injuries to motorcyclists upon impact.
Crash barriers remain in place even though they have been reported as dangerous.
Despite years of awareness and growing evidence, Sammut noted, these outdated and dangerous barriers remain in place across much of the country — and alarmingly, are still being installed on newly built or upgraded roads.
“It’s not just that these crash barriers are still everywhere,” he said, “but we are literally building new roads using the same type of infrastructure that puts lives at risk.”
Sammut emphasised that the country’s road infrastructure should not increase the danger for two-wheeled vehicle users. “This is about people’s health and lives. We urgently need infrastructure that protects — not harms — motorcyclists.”
He also called for the adoption of safer alternatives, such as motorcycle-friendly barriers fitted with additional lower-level protection, which can prevent riders from sliding underneath the rail or striking exposed metal edges.
As motorcycling becomes increasingly popular in Malta, Sammut urged authorities — particularly Transport Malta and the Ministry for Transport — to review current road safety standards and ensure that future projects follow best practices.
“It’s time for the government to act responsibly and ensure that infrastructure works in favour of road safety, not against it,” he concluded.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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